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Having had the opportunity to work with Professor Ruscio as my Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu coach, as well as, having him come in and help my police department train, I can honestly say there is not a better coach. Him and Rita are fully invested in making sure everyone gets better and take the time to thoroughly explain techniques. There's no place I'd rather train, and there are few schools with a coach as knowledgeable and experienced as Professor Brian.
Brian does a great job of managing one of the most popular Brazilian Jiu Jitsu schools in Central Florida and the World.
Brian always takes his time with instruction and is always patient with students of every level.
I met Brian Ruscio at Gracie Barra Orlando when he was working his way up to Black Belt in BJJ. He has always been very friendly and helpful. He is very patient and detailed-oriented, has never taken advantage of his skill level and has always toned down his training to the level of the individual. He works with a diverse group, from kids to teens, and seniors some in their 50's or higher. From the student to the professional Brian always seems to be able to deliver a great experience every time. You always come out learning something new.
Studied under Brian for over a year learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His knowledge of the art is immense and work ethic is second to none. If you train with Brian, you will see results...period.
I've had the pleasure of working with Brian a few years back when I trained at my local Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy. He is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable about the sport. Brian's integrity and commitment to the sport projects what all students of this sport need to also display. He is patient, and works with the students not only on good, solid technique, but also on varieties for those who need to modify their style. I appreciate his excellent customer service and willingness to work with the community as well. As a former teacher for Orange County Public Schools, I've asked Brian to participate in the annual Teach-In event in which professionals from the community give back and come to schools to inform students about different career opportunities and such. Brian was to speak about the importance of self-confidence and motivation in life to students grades 4-5.
I recommend Brian Ruscio for his excellent personality, professionalism, expertise on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and high integrity.
Brian trained with me throughout my white belt stages. He was very helpful and took his time to make sure I knew everything before moving on. I highly recommend him as a teacher and trainer.
Brian is one of the BEST wrestling and grappling instructors in Orlando I've met. Very friendly, helpful and attentive. If you're looking to get in shape, learn self defense or just looking to be a part of a very disciplined team call Brian. Very professional.
Brian is an amazing instructor, with an incredible nack for not only showing me proper techniques in my training but also taking the time to explain the do's and don'ts in detail. He is extremely professional, knowledgeable and patient. He has not only taught me in the school, he has given me diet regiments and coached me in my workouts for me to excel with my brazilian jiu jitsu. I would recommend him to noone a million times over!!! Not only has jiu jitsu changed my life but Brian plays the other half of the change in my life!!
I have known Brian for over seven years. Brian is a skilled, knowledgeable, and friendly trainer. He is a black belt and trainer in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and additionally a high level wrestler. He is an excellent and patient instructor who continues to enhance my abilities.
Awesome instructor. Brian (and Rita) are very patient with my son when he needs help. He's a beginner and they are excellent with him even in a group setting.
Love this school, I have been going there for 9 months and don't plan on leaving, the school is very lucky to have a professor like Brian Ruscio, very talented, skillful, and knowledgeable in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling and others. I recommend this school with confidence.
Every time I train under professor Brian, I gain professional know how and reserve. Professor Brian teach by example to be calm and collected in chaos. As he says, "What is there to be excited about." He builds you up inside out. Work on your core only to be followed up with the tools you need to defeat all altercations in peace and war. He set the training bar for your skill set and will work with you to achieve your desire, whether to compete or to defend yourself. I would not take my daughter to train anywhere else. Thank you.
Love the Muay Thai Boxing and Ladies Jiu Jitsu classes. Great work out and great people!
Awesome!!! Just Awesome!!! From the instructor, Brian Ruscio, to the teammates I train with! Doesn't get any better.
Great classes! Brian really takes the time to work with you and show techniques in depth. I look forward to continue training with him at each and every class
I enjoyed the class immensely. Being a little familiar w different types of disciplines and instructors through the years, I can honestly say that Brian has the demeanor of a true martial artist. No matter what your level of training, Brian will be patient and helpful in his instruction. I highly recommend Grappling Mastery, to anyone w a teachable attitude!
Brian Ruscio is an excellent Black Belt Bjj instructor. Very technical and motivating. His wrestling background is an added bonus. Try it out the free class, you'll see what I mean.
Since I was 8 yrs old(BloodSport release) I had wanted to train in Martial Arts. Do to circumstances in my life and growing up I was unable to. I was in and out a couple of times, nothing consistently. 25yrs later(still following it, dissecting it and just in general never lost my love for the concept, understanding and mentality of true martial arts), I can say w/ absolute certainty that all the things in my life led me to where I find myself now @ GM. I had been looking at schools on and off for a little while. To say this place is what you'd expect to find at the end of a rainbow would be a disservice. I met Brian Ruscio about 2 months ago after checking out another local school. Unless you are dead inside you will notice instantly that he carries the heart and characteristics of a True Martial Artist, he truly loves what does, all of it. What himself and Rita are in the process of building deserves endless praise. Thank you Brian and Rita for all your patience and wisdom I appreciate it tremendously.
Great Place to Train, Legit BJJ Osss FURIA
Coach Brian not only knows what he is doing, but is a fantastic coach! He is great with kids...and adults too.
The best place for martail arts I've ever been to. The atmosphere is relaxed enough to enjoy learning but has the intensity to make you strive for achievement .
5 stars
It's great place for kids and adults!
So much patience and thorough explanation of moves
5 stars
We love this place! We appreciate the good structure, thorough training and patient coaches!
Can't say enough about Brian and his team! They inspire, teach discipline, respect, and all while having fun. So glad my family has become a part of something so wonderful.
My son was in Kuk Sool Won a couple of years ago while in Germany. However after returning to the US he couldn't find a martial art gym that fit quite like the last. Well after only a couple weeks of going he is super excited to be at Grappling Mastery. The vibe in the gym is friendly, yet not in a way that lacks discipline. I'll definitely be recommending GM to anyone who needs a new place to call "home"!!!
I have only recently began training with Brian with the Grappling Mastery team. Having been from Las Vegas and training under multiple coaches, it's gives me great comfort knowing such a gem of an instructor like Brian resides in an almost "middle-of-nowhere" location.
Coming from big teams in Vegas, I was surprised when I witnessed a regular training day in Brian's Kids Class. The juvenile and adult classes also have a good percentage of females training. This is indicative of how team members trust Brian to provide a wholesome training environment. Most remotely located academies don't have as much female or kids/juvenile numbers training.
I have scouted around the area for any jiu-jitsu training and was only met with disappointment when I found out the only other jiu-jitsu academy has a black belt that is not IBJJF certified.
I have recommended his academy to people at work who might be interested in starting in the martial arts or just want to get fit. Brian is an IBJJF-certified black belt with a lineage from Marcio Simas of Gracie Barra Orlando.
Easily the best School in Lake County. This guy knows what he's doing, his credentials are legit, and he's a genuinely great person. Nothing but great times in his gym. If you're looking for a nice, casual and laid back environment where you can really learn Jiu Jitsu, have a great time, and make lots of good friends, this is where to go.
I am 33 but have always been fascinated with martial arts ever since I was a kid but have never had a chance to get into it. Well today I took my first Muay Thai class and I must say, I was very impressed! Brian is great and so are the other coaches. They are very patient and make sure you learn the proper techniques before moving on. They are very serious at what they do but yet make it a fun experience in the process. I was taking krav maga at another school last month but wasnt really getting much out of it. Plus they only offered 2 Krav Maga classes per week. At Grappling Mastery they offer multiple classes per week on mornings, afternoons and evenings. So you will definitely get your money's worth and more. Plus you get 30 days free to try it out. Can't really beat that anywhere else. I could immediately tell the difference in this school and their commitment to teaching compared to the other one. I was very pleased! Looking forward to training at Grappling Mastery for a long time and giving it my best effort!
My husband has been with Brian for two years and is now a blue belt in jiu-jitsu. I have been a here and there student due to small children but Brian is always welcoming and so patient with the kids even when they don't always wait till class is over to attack him. It's a great school with an amazing instructor and atmosphere. I couldn't see us training anywhere else but here.
This place is amazing! It has been such a great experience for my 11 year old son. His self confidence has gone up so much in just a few weeks. Brian and the other instructors do such a great job encouraging and teaching the moves.
I have known Professor Brian for 10 years and he is an excellent BJJ, Wrestling and Muay Thai instructor. He has a great team and creates a family atmosphere that works hard and produces awesome students. If you're in the Mount Dora location and looking to train BJJ, I'd recommend checking out Grappling Mastery.
5 stars
Top notch Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school run by great people. Highly recommend this school!
Best decision I've made in my life yet. Brian is a genuine, caring, and intelligent teacher. I've been going there for 4 months and have developed so much, not just in martial arts but as a person too. You will learn and grow here i promise you that,not only from what Brian teaches but what the other members are able to teach you. Everyone is there to help one another.
5 stars
Excellent gym. Great atmosphere, Brian is well versed in all aspects of grappling to help grow your game. He was able to explain the concepts of the move being taught. Definitely recommend
I was in the area visiting, and contacted Brian. He was responsive, and welcomed me to join them at their open mat. Good group of guys and girls there, positive environment, good instruction--I'll be back.
I love this place! The people here are the best😁
If your in the Mount Dora/Eustis area check out Grappling Mastery. Any time my wife and I have been at the academy they have always gone out of their way to make us feel welcome.
Came to visit from out of town and a friend recommended I get in contact with Brian. I went to train and met an awesome group of people! Had some great rolls and was able to jump in and feel super comfortable with everyone! Looking forward to some more training before I leave!!
Great place to train. Professor Ruscio has a broad knowledge of many forms of grappling in addition to traditional BJJ and Muay Thai striking and incorporates all of this into his teachings to great effect.
Traveling through, or are a local? This is worth the stop if you have had a taste of the Grappling or Striking kool-aid.
A great environment and excellent instructor and people.
Paid them a visit for a We Defy seminar. I have never been there before, but I was still welcomed with open arms. Good training environment. Good people.
On vacation for the week and was looking for a good place to drop in for a class while I’m in Florida and I went to the right place! The hospitality was amazing and Brian is a great coach! Got some good rolls in as well! I highly recommend checking this gym out if you’re in the area!
Amazing academy with amazing teachers, true martial art and honorable knowledge!!
recommend 100%
Loved it. Highly recommend. He works with you and helps you get everything down the correct way.
Truly blessed to be part of this academy of Jujitsu and Muay Thai the coaches are beyond awesome should really give this place a try!!!!!! If your in the Mount Dora/Eustis area check out Grappling Mastery. Any time I have time to train at the academy they have always gone out of their way to make us feel like family! The perfect place to get solid, practical grappling and striking training Self Defense, Get In Shape, Clean Safe Environment. Proffesor Brian's and Rita’s experience and skills are unsurpassed in the central Florida area. I would highly recommend adults and children to attend his classes. Excellent people skills and is great with kids.
(Translated by Google) Very nice and nice teacher !!!
(Original)
너무 친절하고 좋은 선생님임 !!!
Great people! The real deal.
Been going here for 4 months now Brian is great with the kids and adults definitely recommend.
If you live in the Tavares, Eustis, Mt Dora area and are interested in adult, teen, or child instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, or Judo I cannot recommend IBJJF Black Belt Brian Ruscio enough…absolutely the best instructor for all ages and skill levels in the area!!! Brian promotes an atmosphere that is friendly while at the same time allowing for competition and hard rolling if that is what you are looking for. The one thing I thought my son would miss not being involved in traditional team sports is the team…I was very wrong. Grappling Mastery is an outstanding team and I would not train anywhere else!!!
Over the past few years, my son has been fortunate to become one of the best teen grapplers in the country. We have had many, many coaches across many states, and I can clearly state that Brian Ruscio from Grappling Mastery is one of the very best. He can teach not only at the highest level of the sport for serious competitors, but also is incredible when working with beginners (patient, kind, and understanding). So if you are in his area, and interested in jiu-jitsu and wrestling, don't think twice and go visit his school. You will never train anywhere else.
I've known Brian Ruscio since 2005 and trained for a few years with him in Orlando.I decided I would travel to Mt. Dora from Lakeland,FL and train with him.Grappling Mastery was very clean and professionally ran by Brian. His techniques were awesome and his students welcomed me as a visitor and made me feel at home. When I arrived for jiu jitsu I learned that they were starting with yoga Monday through Wednesday from 6-6:30 and I hadn't planned on taking a yoga class but Brian invited me to join him and I'm glad I did it was an excellent way to warm up, gain flexibility, and that lends itself to safer training as well.
Again if you are looking to train as a guest or you're looking to find an excellent school I would highly recommend Grappling Mastery.
I have the great pleasure to Know Brian for over 11 years, and seen him learn and become the incredible athlete he is today.
One thing that has always separated him from the crowd was his love for teaching and his ability to teach. His whole life has been around wrestling, fitness, Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial arts. I know of his dream of having his own school since early 2005 at least, and seeing this dream fulfilled with Grappling Mastery, makes me so proud of my friend and trainer. Anyone who would want to learn properly and reach the next step in their training should train with Brian, since he won't only teach you martial arts but also help you develop as a better person.
The devotion and focus to develop himself and others that I have seen in Brian, is something that makes him and His School Grappling Mastery very unique.
So if you want to learn proper MMA, sportsmanship and train with someone that has devoted all his life to be a great athlete and teacher and NEVER give up, you need to train with Brian Ruscio and his team at Grappling Mastery.
Fantastic school to learn BJJ plus many other techniques. It's like one big family! Professor Brian Ruscio is very knowledgeable and patient with his students. It's a great family and positive environment.
Since I was 9 years old, I have studied many forms of self defense from; Tae Kwon Do, Boxing, and Eagle Claw Kung Fu. Out of all the different facilities that I have trained at, they are nothing like the Grappling Mastery. I have just started there about 3 weeks ago and I already enjoy it more than any other facility that I have been to. The environment is Friendly, and everyone there helps one another achieve their best. I would highly recommend this place to anyone. It doesn't matter how old you are, bring yourself, bring your kids, bring your parents. If you want a fun place to learn self defense skills and be part of a team with unlimited potential, then this is the place to be.
My experience at Grappling Mastery has been positive and exciting. I am trying to grow my knowledge and ability in Jiu Jitsu and other mixed martial arts. I have improved my skill level and knowledge under Brian in these areas of Jiu Jitsu; Takedowns, guard passing, sweeps and submissions. If you want to learn self-defense, stay in shape, or choke someone out with their own shirt, this is the place for you.
I have trained with Brian for over 3 years and have learned more about the art of Jiu-Jitsu from him than anyone else. What a great gym he has created and great family.
The school has become a second family and everyone is willing to help others improve. We even attend UFC/metamoris parties as a group. There are no egos and we have fun learning with Brian's patient instruction.
Love this place.. And my son loves it too.. Great place to learn and get your Jiu Jitsu on!
I would like to share my experience. I joined October 2015 and wanted to be sure to give a review based on many months after I joined. I am new to BJJ, started 6 months prior to joining here. I am very happy I made the switch. If you are looking to train somewhere that you are being taught proper techniques, keeping up with IBJJF rules, explaining the points and answer any questions you have, this is the place. Professor Brian Ruscio clearly is someone that will help you achieve what you are looking to learn or accomplish. Whether it be self defense, street fight or competition. He is always willing to demonstrate, give alternatives and is very professional. I hope this may help anyone that is looking for a school in Lake County area. Glad I walked in those doors and took advantage of the free 30 day trial. Great place and atmosphere to train!
Grappling Mastery is a great gym and Brian Ruscio is a great coach, he is very patient and teaches me both the basics and advanced techniques. I like that the whole Grappling Mastery team supports each other, in and out of the gym. After fighting for 6 years, I decided I wanted to try MMA. I already knew Boxing and Muay Thai, but I had no experience fighting on the ground. I started at Grappling Mastery 18 months ago, Brian has taught me so much in that time. Although I have a lot to learn, I feel very comfortable fighting on the ground now. Of all the fighting coaches I have had, Brian is easily my favorite. He understands my goals and is making sure I achieve them.
I finally got the opportunity to train at Grappling Mastery last night and was honestly impressed. He was very welcoming and had plenty of time for all of his students. The class was filled with enthusiasm and students were having a good time. Don't miss your chance to train under a legitimate Gracie Barra black belt!
Definitely the best place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Lake County! They also offer several types of Wrestling and Muay Thai instruction as well. Professor Brian learned from the best and is willing and able to pass on his vast knowledge. If you're serious about martial arts, you can't go wrong with Grappling Mastery.
Top Notch training! I'm so happy to have found this school and its instructors! Like one big family! I definitely recommend this school to any one looking! See you on the Mats.
Outstanding instruction! Definitely an awesome learning environment and it feels like one big family! Brian and Rita genuinely care about your progress and growth in Jiu Jitsu! No one is out to prove anything which creates a very comfortable and welcoming class setting. The physical benefits are amazing and you learn a skill. Give it a try... you'll be addicted!
Top Notch training! I'm so happy to have found this school and its instructors! I definitely recommend this school to any one looking! See you on the Mats.
Grappling Mastery's BJJ, and Muay Thai classes have taught me so much. Brian Ruscio is a great instructor and I would highly recommend his classes. I initially joined to learn self defense, and after a few months feel able to defend myself in any situation. I enjoyed Brian's classes and instruction so much that my interest has gone beyond self defense and progressed into a passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Brian is extremely knowledgeable, friendly and humble. He is very patient with the kids and us older learners. Everyone at Grappling Mastery was friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!
I started training at Grappling Mastery about 4 months ago. Brian Ruscio is a patient, knowledgeable coach and the academy is family friendly for all ages.
I am now trying to get my 6 year old into BJJ as I think it will be a great experience for him. I would recommend Grappling Mastery to anyone without hesitation.
Professional, highly knowledgeable, genuinely caring instructors! Amazing place for for adults and children! Sign up! You will be very happy you did so!
Great teacher, great folks. Brian knows how to break the moves down so even beginners can understand how and WHY they work.
I've been training there for 3 years now. Brian is an excellent and patient instructor. He has made an atmosphere that is friendly and family oriented. I would highly recommend.
Great instructor, my daughter and I are very comfortable with this environment. We didn't expect to find such a high caliber trainer in our area. Thank you Brian for your integrity, morals and training.
Took my daughter here in March 2015 because we were looking to get her into MMA. She has been loving the classes as well as the great teachers! I even started private sessions with Brian and the women's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on Saturdays. If you truly want to learn what Grappling Mastery has to offer then come check out the growing family..
I have trained in Jiu-Jitsu at various periods in my life since the late 1990's. I started with Alliance Jiu-Jitsu in Atlanta. After a few years off, I trained under a Gracie Barra program where I used the knowledge to start competing in Jiu-Jitsu/Grappling. Once again after another few years off, I trained with American Top Team in Atlanta. I've had top-notch training at each of these places. I recently signed up for and completed the Grappling Mastery 30-day complementary trial period. What I can tell you about this place is that you will receive the highest level of instruction in a format that allows you to build the necessary reps to ingrain the information so that it will last far beyond a two min drill. It was the first time I had come across a format that lent itself best to the learning process of new information. Highly recommend. Check this place out!
I’ve been training here only a couple months at this point, but since day one I’ve felt welcomed. Brian and the guys and girls here are all super cool and constantly helping me learn. Definitely worth checking out!
I came to grappling mastery a few months ago with no experience in any combat sports. Everyone from the beginning has been very friendly and always eager to help me learn. Great school, Great people.
Grappling Mastery is by far the best club to join in Eustis. FL. my personal experience was awesome they are professional, friendly folks. they will work with you to help you accomplish your goals.
Going here a few months now as often as I am able. No complaints. Great place to train, had little experience with any martial arts and everyone was willing to work with me to get me up to speed.
Great Team! Brian brings a wealth of knowledge from many styles. As a professional fighter and active duty Soldier I have worked out with many great people and at many great gyms. I can say confindently Grappling Mastery is by far one of the most complete Teams I have ever worked out with! Great instruction for all levels, if you are in the area I highly suggest you check out Grappling Mastery!
This academy is truly outstanding! My son has attended since November 2014 and he is a tough one to like any activity but from the first class Brian (instructor/owner) made him interested! Brian has the unique ability to keep the kids involved & focused on the task at hand. Plus with Rita as his right hand, they make the perfect team the kids look up to and actually listen to. Even though this is located 30 minutes from my house 100% worth it!
They are really awesome. Great with kids and the kids (boy and girl) love it! Highly recommend checking them out.
I joined primarily to get in better shape yet immediately discovered a community that I had to be a part of.
“Along with my wife I brought my boys to this gym a 2 years ago. They have come a long way through diligent practice and focus on training lead by the amazing coaches at Grappling Mastery. I can’t begin to explain how proud I am of not only their results in competition but also the discipline and sportsmanship that is impressed upon them during their training. I couldn’t be happier in the choice of gyms and coaches than I am with Grappling Mastery. There is simply no better an instructor than Brian, He is a great teacher with adults and children. He teaches patience and honor along with attention to technical practice. I am proud to say he is my coach and will be as long as long as he is teaching.”
--Update-
"We are at two years now and our whole family are now members along with the stellar children's classes my wife and I are in the adult classes and we are loving it. A great way to stay in shape lose weight and learn a valuable skill. The kids have grown so much in the past year in Jiu Jitsu and with the ever growing team at grappling mastery have moved on to many competition wins. They have also had loses and they have taken them with as learning experiences. This is a great family oriented gym and I do consider many of its members family!!
Both of my children are enrolled and participate in all the classes. The classes have improved confidence, fitness and knowledge of the art of Brazilian Jujitsu. The teachers - Brian, Rita, and Dave are amazing. It is wonderful to see how much these teachers care and provide a safe and dynamic environment. I highly recommend this Dojo for all.
My kids have been training here for 2.5 years and we love it! Great coaches. They are very patient.
It's awesome. The coaches are great, super friendly and understanding and very knowledgeable. My girls and I love the classes. I highly recommend Brazilian Jujitsu.
Great coaching, Great system, Amazing team, couldn’t ask for better!
While doing research on schools in the area I had just moved to I was told that this school had a certain reputation (Cobra Kai type) so I decided to see for myself. Turns out there was nothing further from the truth. The coach and all its members have become like family. Not only that but the jiu-jitsu lineage can be verified, their coaches are battle tested and no egos. If you’re looking to learn and train this is a great place to do it.
I recently signed my son up for Jiu Jitsu and Grappling with Coach Brian and I can’t say enough good things about the class and the team, the whole staff is knowledgeable and takes the time to explain the moves and how to execute them properly. My son loves going to the class which offers not only skills but exercise in addition. We are so happy to be a part of the Grappling Mastery family.
Friendly coaches and members whose goal is to help you thrive. The coaches are articulate and offer high quality teaching. The best part of my day. :)
Every day I train at Grappling Mastery is an honor and a pleasure. It is a rare thing indeed to find a coach as knowledgeable and technically proficient as Brian Ruscio; what's even more impressive is his obvious passion for the sport and the personal investment he makes in his students. If you want to be a more complete fighter, or even just a talented hobbyist, Grappling Mastery is the place to be. For those of you in the first responder community, a discount is available, and *everyone* can try the first 30 days free. If this seems like a shameless plug, well that's because it is. I was welcomed with open arms as a new student, and my game has grown leaps and bounds. I couldn't imagine training anywhere else.
Come check it out!
After training in several other grappling schools, I am so pleased to have found the best at last! Not only is Brian very thorough and proficient in jiu jitsu techniques but his vast wrestling background really complements and solidifies the actual application of the positions, and techniques. Multiple options are shown for both submissions and escapes and the same techniques are worked on for that week which helps reinforce them before moving on. The difference of both the sport and self defense applications is also distinguished and both are offered.
The atmosphere and morale of the school is very friendly supportive and you will feel the group effort and respect for one another, without passing judgments. I am really impressed at the patience and willingness of Brian to work one on one with each student during class and in private training. Its also great to see the videos that are uploaded when I cant physically be at the school but still want to mentally be present. In this day and age it is very difficult to find an instructor with people skills as well as a wealth of experience. With Brian you have the total package! I drive a half an hour from the Orlando area every time, but its totally worth it! Especially with affordable dues.
I'm a US Marine and completed the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program Green Belt Instructor course in the summer of 2002. Soon after the 3-week course I was deployed to Iraq from 2003-2004. Therefore, I never had the opportunity to really exploit what I learned as our priorities were directed at our mission. Therefore, I had a taste of the martial arts, but no long-term formal training, other than the 3 weeks of the course, just enough to know that I don't know much at all. I thought it was important to begin my review with my background so readers understand that I know enough to know what is legitimate, yet I do not at all have long term formalized training.
I am a disabled combat veteran, I sustained severe airborne injuries which required surgery and other secondary injuries. These injuries I believed would prevent me from ever attempting to pursue training in the martial arts as I am in perpetual pain. Moreover, I simply felt inadequate and incapable of doing it. After the war, I also attained "invisible" injuries in the form of Post-Traumatic Stress from the experiences of war. All of these factors made me believe that the martial arts would be something I could never do until I met Professor Brian Ruscio.
I did much research before reaching out to Grappling Mastery, and compared the lineage and training of Professor Ruscio with other schools. I found many schools, much closer to my home, but the Professor was by far the most experienced, not only in training but in actual competitions, as well as having an exemplary lineage. Moreover, I found his training to be extremely robust and beyond just Brazilian Jujitsu, as his training went far beyond by being inclusive of many forms of grappling. He is a NAGA Pan-American Championship in the Expert Light Heavyweight Division and created a Hybrid Grappling Style by combining the best moves from Greco-Roman, Freestyle Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Sambo, and Catch-as-Catch-Can. All of this made it clear that he would be the school I would attend. I felt the 2 hour drive each day would be well worth it to learn from the best. As a Marine paratrooper, I would not be satisfied with anything less. Now all I had left to do was to experience first-hand how he would be as an instructor to a veteran with severe disabilities.
Professor Ruscio's training and method of teaching is exemplary. Although I do not know much of the martial arts, I am an expert instructor in multiple disciplines, I was a Marine Corps Primary Marksmanship Instructor, Para-Marine Jumpmaster, Firepower Control Team Chief, Marine Air Ground Task Force Fire Support Coordinator, and more, and as a civilian, the Theater-Wide Training Director in Iraq for Biometrics, worked for the U.S. Army Intelligence Center's Training and Doctrine Command, worked for CENTCOM and SOCOM, hold a Master's degree, and am a current NRA Firearm's instructor, a former Florida "K" licensed firearms instructor, Director of Investigations (Florida licensed Private Investigator with C, G, A licenses) and more. I know a great instructor when I meet one. The professor is patient, empathetic to injuries, yet pushes you to your personal limitations. He maintains a calm demeanor, yet a genuine enthusiasm for your development. His training is personalized and not cookie cutter. When you think he is not watching, he will approach you and catch nuances you are executing incorrectly which you do not realize. Small adjustments enable immediate results when you have an instructor who cares about your improvement. I believe he purposely observes from an angle in which you do not see him, so you are not distracted or conscientious of his watchful eye. But make no mistake, his attention to detail will exploit your weaknesses, for on the spot correction, and immediate improvement. His instruction is exceptional. With all things, you must put in the work. Do not rely on attending a few hours a week and expecting magical improvement. You should be going over what you learned either by executing the movements at home, watching his free videos on YouTube, and attending weekly "roll & review "
Lastly, I want to address the culture created by the professor. As a veteran, we crave challenge, camaraderie, and purpose. And sometimes feel we have lost that when we transition to civilian. At Grappling Mastery I have found that culture again. Everyone I have met has been sincerely encouraging, supportive, and have gone out of their way to help me improve. The only competition I feel is against myself. To be a better version of myself the next training day. There is no pressure or fear of failure. Everyone has a genuine empathy with each other, a genuine camaraderie. I cannot begin to express how significant his training has been to help with my Post Traumatic Stress.
I feel privileged and blessed to have found Professor Ruscio who has in a short time had a huge positive impact on my life.
I have trained in Brazillian Jiu Jitsu with several gyms throughout the east coast for a year prior to joining Grappling Mastery and I must say Brian has the best school I have ever had the honor to train at. I have been at this gym for a little over a year now and i've watched him transform not only myself but many others into top of the line grapplers and teammates. Brian is the only IBJJF certified instructor in the area and it shows as many people from other local gyms seek him out to train with the best. From the moment you walk in the door be it kids or adults,beginners or seasoned veterans of the sport are always made to feel welcome. I would recommend this school to anyone who wants a quality experiance in the sport of Jiu Jitsu.
I was wanting to get my 5 year old involved in a year round sport and came across Grappling Mastery. I really wasn't sure if it would work out considering he was one of the younger students, but Brian and Rita are so great with the kids. They are incredibly patient and helpful, and they've worked with my rambunctious son to help him learn to focus and work on his training. We used to go two afternoons a week, but my son loves it and begs to go every time his class is offered.
I like that he is getting exercise while having fun, but he's also building a foundation of knowledge and skills for self defense. It's the perfect sport for an energetic kid.
I can't say enough about coaches Brian and Rita. We highly recommend this gym for kids or adults.
5 year old son, started with Brian and his team about 8 months ago. He has come leaps and bounds in personal and in the sport. We already have plans on having our daughter enter once she is of age.
Awesome people, amazing instruction! A great space to learn with great people eager to teach. Supportive atmosphere & a place to improve your confidence, health & have a great time pushing yourself.
My 11 year son and 9 year old daughter go to class here. We normally go to three classes a week. We drive from Weirsdale because the coaches are so good with the kids here. My kids love everything about Grappling Mastery!
Excellent academy to learn Jiu jitsu, they made feel like family right away.
Truly blessed to walk in this gym and feel like I been there years the coaches are beyond awesome should really give this place a try!!!!!!
I would recommend this gym to everyone.Brian is a master of the art and his passion for it shows daily. I love the individual instruction. I always feel at home. It used to be a chore to get my son to the gym but since we started this gym hes excited to go.
My son (10) has been coming here Monday through Friday for the last month and we have no plans on stopping! He loves everything about this gym. The coaches are phenomenal and do such amazing work with the kids. They are patient and kind with them and every single child that comes here looks forward to it. They really take the time to show the children techniques and enforce what they are teaching them. I cannot recommend this gym highly enough! If you're an adult looking to train in jiu-jitsu or you have children that want to train, this is the place to bring them!
Grappling Mastery: BJJ & Muay Thai Academy is owned and operated by 2nd Degree Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt and Official Bang Muay Thai Coach, Brian Ruscio.
We offer Bullyproof Kids Classes, Ladies Only Self Defense Classes, Adult BJJ, USA Wrestling, and Bang Muay Thai Kickboxing!
